Dubai Police could allow public to film crimes

Dubai police are considering changes in the law which would allow the public to film crimes they believe are taking place.

The move comes after the arrest of a 22 year old Indian last week, who filmed an senior UAE official attacking an Indian van driver following a driving incident.

The 22 year old – who then uploaded the video on Youtube – has since been arrested on charges of defamation.

Under UAE law, the Emirati who assaulted the Indian van driver faces up to a year in jail or a maximum of fine of up to AED10,000 for minor assault, while the Indian motorist who filmed and uploaded the video faces a maximum of two years in jail or a fine of up to AED20,000 if convicted of filming without permission or defamation.

Major General Khamis Mattar Al Mazeina, Acting Chief of Dubai Police told Gulf News that Dubai Police is studying a suggestion which will allow people to send in photos and video clips of those who breaking traffic rules or committing any wrongdoing on main roads that may affect public safety.

However, they are not allowed to put the videos on the web to defame others.

“We are working on implementing this suggestions as per the directions of Lieutenant General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police,” said Major General Al Mazeina.

He said this step is in line with Dubai Police’s keenness to cooperate and communicate with the public on all levels.

Major General Al Mazeina said authorised expatriate and Emiratis will be allowed to take such videos and send them to the Dubai Police operation room.

“People will not be allowed to publish such kind of videos or pictures in any means of media other than sending them to the police operation room, which will allow police to take the required action against the offenders,” he said.